Daisy Chain Devices and Systems for Signal Switching and Distribution

ABSTRACT

The invention provides systems, devices, methods and software to daisy chain multiple individual transmitters, optionally nodes, optionally extenders, and receivers to form any sized scalable system of digital video and audio signal switching and distribution. The video audio systems are for a simpler system design, wiring, control and expansion, to accomplish signal interfacing, switching, splitting for many varied input and output requirements with a scalable pair of transmitters and receivers.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Application No.61/492,546 filed Jun. 2, 2011, which is incorporated into thisapplication in its entirety by this reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a system of components, methods, and systemcontrol software for performing digital video and audio switching anddistribution using multiple transmitters, receivers, nodes, extenders,or bi-directional duplexers via a daisy chain configuration without needfor a central switcher or splitter or matrix switcher. Included aretransmitters, receivers, nodes, duplexers, control devices, extenders,cables, software and systems.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 schematically shows an example illustration of a video audiosystem with a prior art interface device (or balun).

FIG. 2 schematically shows an example illustration of a video audiosystem with Presenter (the family name of the invention products usedthroughout this document) Tx (transmitter device) and Presenter Rx(receiver device) to achieve the same functions as the prior artinterface devices.

FIG. 3 schematically shows an example illustration of a video audiosystem with a prior art switcher device.

FIG. 4 schematically shows an example illustration of a video audiosystem with multiple Presenter Tx (transmitter) devices connected in adaisy chain and one Presenter Rx device to achieve the same functions asthe prior art switcher devices in a cost effective streamlined scalablemanner.

FIG. 5 schematically shows an example illustration of a video audiosystem with a prior art splitter device (distribution amplifier).

FIG. 6 schematically shows an example illustration of a video audiosystem with one Presenter Tx (transmitter) device and multiple PresenterRx (receiver) devices connected in a daisy-chain to achieve the samefunctions as the prior art splitter devices in a cost effectivestreamlined scalable manner.

FIG. 7 schematically shows an example illustration of a video audiosystem with a prior art matrix switcher device.

FIG. 8 schematically shows an example illustration of a video audiosystem with multiple Presenter Tx (transmitter) devices and multiplePresenter Rx (Receiver) devices to achieve the same functions as theprior art matrix switcher devices in a cost effective streamlinedscalable manner.

FIG. 9A schematically shows an example illustration of the front panel(top) and rear panel (bottom) of a Presenter Tx device.

FIG. 9B schematically shows an example illustration of a Presenter Tx(transmitter) circuit block diagram, the abbreviation “DC” in theillustration stands for Daisy-Chain.

FIG. 10A schematically shows an example illustration of the front panel(top) and rear panel (bottom) of a Presenter Rx (receiver) device.

FIG. 10B schematically shows an example illustration a Presenter Rx(receiver) circuit block diagram, the abbreviation “DC” in theillustration stands for Daisy-Chain.

FIG. 11 schematically shows an example illustration of a prior art largematrix switcher.

FIG. 12 schematically shows an example illustration of a video audiosystem with a scalable Presenter system comprising four daisy-chained Tx(transmitter) devices connected to signal source devices (PCs or DVDplayers), a node (Nd) for switching signals from any of the fourdaisy-chained Tx (transmitter) devices and sending to any of the fourdaisy-chained Rx (receiver) devices for display on any of the displaydevices (HDTVs, Projectors).

FIG. 13A schematically shows an example illustration of the front panel(top) and rear panel (bottom) of a Presenter node device.

FIG. 13B schematically shows an example illustration of a Presenter nodecircuit block diagram.

FIG. 14 schematically shows an example illustration of a prior artextender device.

FIG. 15 schematically shows an example illustration of a Presentersystem with one or multiple extenders (Ex) daisy-chained for long rangesignal transmission.

FIG. 16A shows an example illustration of the front panel (top) and rearpanel (bottom) of a Presenter Ex (extender) device.

FIG. 16B shows an example illustration of an Ex (extender) circuit blockdiagram, the abbreviation “DC” in the illustration stands forDaisy-Chain.

FIG. 17 shows an example illustration of a prior art TIA/EIA standardRJ45 Ethernet cabling pinouts.

FIG. 18 shows an example illustration of a new Luxi 8-conductor wirecabling RJ45 pinouts for increased transmission range with lesscrosstalk between wires.

FIG. 19 schematically shows an example illustration of a method fordigital video audio signal switching and distribution with devices (leftpanel) and steps (right panels) in daisy chain systems.

FIG. 20 schematically shows an example illustration of a systemconfiguration and device mapping method achieved by software.

FIG. 21A schematically shows an example illustration of systemconfiguration software flowchart for mapping Tx (transmitter) devices.

FIG. 21B schematically shows an example illustration of systemconfiguration software flowchart for mapping Rx (receiver) devices.

FIG. 21C schematically shows an example illustration of system controlcommands for signal routing.

FIG. 22 schematically shows an example illustration of a Presenterdaisy-chained bi-directional audio video and control system withPresenter Duplex devices.

FIG. 23 schematically shows an example illustration of a PresenterDuplex device circuit block diagram.

BACKGROUND

Most of the corporate, governmental and educational buildings as well asmodern homes generally have two electronic systems installed: a computernetwork and a video audio system. Computer and video audio systems havedistinguishable differences: a computer network processes data; multipledevices share the same physical connections by multiplexing data packetsin asynchronous communications; while a video and audio systemdistributes video and audio signals, where each link between a sourceand a display is a dedicated physical connection for synchronizedtransmission. Thus though both systems transmit information includingvideo and audio they are fundamentally different in how transmission andcontrol is accomplished.

There are four basic functions of a video and audio system,traditionally performed by four types of products:

-   -   a) Interfaces or baluns: (see FIG. 1) Interfaces (baluns) are        devices to connect one source to one display. They also serve to        perform long distance signal transmission functions.    -   b) Switchers: (see FIG. 3) Switcher devices are to connect        multiple sources to one display, and to select which source is        to be shown on the display.    -   c) Splitters or distribution amplifiers: (see FIG. 5) Splitters        or distribution amplifier devices are used to connect one source        to multiple displays.    -   d) Matrix switchers: (see FIG. 7) Matrix switchers are devices        to connect multiple video audio source devices to multiple        displays, and to select which sources are to be shown on which        displays. If long distance transmission is needed at any input        or output, a transmitter and receiver pair needs to be added to        that input or output to boost the transmission over the longer        distance. If an input or output signal format is different from        the matrix signal format, a signal converter (or scaler) needs        to be added to that input or output in order to convert the        signal format to that of the matrix signal.

The traditional video audio systems using the above referenced productsare centralized systems; they have the following limitations andshortcomings:

-   -   a) The centralized design means all the input and output cables        need to run to a single location to connect to the switching or        distribution device. For example, in a conference room with 20        seats each with a laptop VGA connection, there will be 20 thick        VGA cables running from the table across or under the floor to        the equipment rack in the adjacent room. This is difficult for        installation and also is not visually appealing.    -   b) The centralized design also means each input and output cable        is long by necessity since all cables must run to the central        device. Using long cables presents added problems since for        video output where the main type of signal connection format is        quickly shifting from the analog VGA and component video to        digital HDMI, DisplayPort and DiiVA signal formats. The digital        signals have much higher bandwidth, thus cannot be transmitted        over long cables often present at centralized video audio        systems. Thus more expensive signal transmitters and receivers        often have to be used in each cable link to boost transmission        over the long cables often needed in centralized video audio        systems.    -   c) The traditional switching and distribution devices have a        fixed number of inputs and outputs. This means if the users want        to expand their video system over time to add more inputs or        outputs, to add a different signal format, for example HDMI,        they have to scrap the old switchers or splitters or matrix        switchers, and install bigger new devices, and also re-run more        or new cables. Such conversion to bigger systems or for a system        capable of receiving a newer signal format like HDMI is a very        costly endeavor. Further, as companies and organizations grow        needs for video audio systems also grow ensuring that        conversions to more expensive systems will be likely.    -   d) The fixed number of inputs and outputs on the traditional        devices poses an even bigger challenge to the device        manufacturers and their resellers. We call one input and one        output interface a 1×1 device; a six input and one output        switcher a 6×1 device; a one input and 10 output splitter a 1×10        device; and a sixteen input and eight output matrix switcher a        16×8 device. Because there are a wide variety of applications,        big or small, in the real world, manufacturers have to make        hundreds of different devices encompassing all combinations;        1×1; 1×2; 2×1; 2×2; 4×1; 1×4; 4×2; 2×4; 4×4; . . . ; all the way        to 512×512 to meet the customers' needs. In addition, different        signal format like VGA, HDMI, DisplayPort, and DiiVA each        requires a set of dedicated support products designed for these        signal formats. This would multiply the total number of products        even further that manufacturers and resellers must stock and        sell. For resellers having to stock hundreds of different models        to accommodate customers who wish a system quickly presents        costly inventory management problems. This is a major financial        and logistical challenge for both manufacturers and resellers.    -   e) If long distance transmission is needed at any input or        output, a transmitter and receiver pair needs to be added to        that input or output to boost the transmission.    -   f) If an input or output signal format is different from the        matrix signal format, an expensive signal converter (or scaler)        needs to be added to that input or output.    -   g) The centralized design also means that the remote controllers        have to be connected to the central device as well. Most        switching devices only have one control port. In a conference        room or a computerized learning room, where there are many        laptops and users, each user prefers to push a button to show        his/her computer screen on the big screen. In order to        accommodate this common application a complex and costly control        system with one controller for each user needs to be installed,        with another set of multiple control cables.    -   h) Some centralized systems use a modular design to address the        expansion (e.g. 4×4 to 8×8 input output capacity) and        customization needs, where the products have several slots and        the installer can choose the number of input cards and output        cards for the particular needs. But this kind of product only        offer limited customization; for example, if a product has 8        input slots and 8 output slots, it's only cost effective for the        applications with the number of inputs and outputs close to 8        each. Often it would be too expensive to put in an 8×8 system if        the customer only uses the system for at most a 6×1 application.        More importantly, these solutions still utilize a centralized        core design that uses modular expansion slots within the central        device. This means that all the limitations and shortcomings        associated with a centralized design are still present and        require solutions.

Some computer network devices use the daisy chain connection; but theyuse network protocol and data packet multiplexing, which is not usablefor high quality video and audio distribution. Some analog video andaudio products use daisy chain connections, but the analog signalquality suffers accumulated degradation over each daisy chained devices.Thus the max number of analog devices can be daisy-chained is verylimited.

SUMMARY

A digital video audio signal switching and distribution system,components, methods, and software are provided. The digital video audiosystems comprises of one or more component transmitters for signalswitching and distribution. Each transmitter (Tx) has one or moreinterfaces (e.g. back, front, sides, top and bottom) with one or moreinput connectors for receiving a signal from a cable from a sourcedevice and optionally another transmitter or node for scalable systemsproviding for practically unlimited range for the system. Eachtransmitter also has one or more output connectors for sending a signalfrom a cable to a receiver or daisy chain series of receivers, or anode. In some embodiments with more than one transmitter thetransmitters are connected in a daisy chain series via cables. In oneembodiment one or more nodes are configured to receive signals fromtransmitters and to switch any of the signals to any receiver or daisychain of receivers or other nodes. In other embodiments one or more thanone node provides an unlimited and scalable system. The system alsoincludes one or more component receivers for relaying signaldistribution to a display device (HDTV, projector). Each receiver hasone or more interfaces (e.g. front, back, sides, top and bottom) withone or more input connectors for receiving signals from a cable from atransmitter or a node and from other receivers. Each receiver also hasone or more outputs for sending a signal from a cable to a display unitand optionally to a receiver or a node. In some embodiments thereceivers are connected in a daisy-chain series via cables if there ismore than one receiver. In some embodiments, at least one of thereceivers is connected to a display device for display but the displaydevice itself is not a core part of this invention. In most embodimentsthe system also contains at least one cable for providing an inputsignal from a video audio source device (e.g. computer, tablet/iPad,DVD/Blue-ray player, smart phone/iPhone).

In many embodiments the transmitters contain one or more input selectionbuttons (e.g. labeled Show Me or another designator) that when selecteddirects the signal from that transmitter to proceed through all of thedownstream transmitters and all of the receivers connected to the systemfor display on a display device (e.g. monitor, projector). In theseembodiments the last activated Show Me selection button controls thesignal flow path.

In other embodiments one or more remote control units can be connectedto any of the connected daisy-chained series of transmitters anddaisy-chained series of receivers or node providing for a second levelof control for signal routing to one or more display units (e.g.monitors, projectors). In most embodiments each of the transmitters andreceivers has a two-way Ethernet connection with networking switch foraccessing the internet. Any of the transmitters and receivers can serveas internet access points for any video audio device connected to atransmitter or receiver of the system. Also all such devices connectedto a transmitter or receiver of the system would have internet accessvia internet signals that are transmitted through the connecteddaisy-chained series of transmitters and receivers.

In one embodiment the system consists of one transmitter and onereceiver. In other embodiments many daisy-chained transmitters areconnected to one receiver, while in others one transmitter is connectedto many daisy-chained receivers. In a common embodiment many receiversare connected at one point to many receivers where the transmitters andreceivers are connected in a daisy-chain.

Each of the transmitters and receiver components contain a circuitboard. For transmitters embodiments the circuit board is configured forreceiving different types of input signal formats that are converted viascalers and converters to a common signal format (e.g. HDMI). Theseinclude a VGA/audio to HDMI scaler, a DisplayPort to HDMI converter, andan optionally a DiiVA to HDMI converter. In some embodiments other newor proprietary signal formats can be converted via scalers andconverters for that purpose. Each of the signals is selected by a commonsignal format (e.g. HDMI) switcher (e.g. 2×1, 3×1, 4×1, or multiple ×1)configured for selecting among input signals for distribution to adigital transmitter. The transmitter circuit board also contains amicrocontroller, memory interfaces, Ethernet input with networkingswitch, and optional selection button (e.g. Show Me Button) configuredfor selecting and controlling a signal from an activated transmitter.The transmitter circuit board also contains a daisy chain processorconfigured for inserting the signal into the signal path and a digitaltransmitter for sending the signal into the signal path which can bethrough one or more transmitters or receivers connected in series via adaisy chain.

The transmitter can send one or multiple signal feeds over one cable.

In other embodiments the transmitter's circuit board can take power fromtransmitters and receivers in system and so no separate external powersupply is required.

For receiver embodiments each receiver contains a circuit boardconfigured for receiving a common (e.g. HDMI) signal format from atransmitter. Each receiver contains a processor for extracting thesignal for relay to a display and a microcontroller for determining andcontrolling the signal flow path where signal information is extractedfor display on a display device. The receiver can receive one ormultiple signal feeds from one cable. In other embodiments a receivercan have a power amplification component on the circuit board for audiobeing sent to speakers.

In most embodiments the system components are connected by cables thatcan be a coaxial cable, a twisted pair cable, and optical fiber cablesor other cables that are developed or adopted to transmit digital videoand audio signals. In still other contemplated embodiments optical cablemay be used capable of transmitting numerous signals (e.g. >10-100signals).

In embodiments the audio video system is scalable with additionaltransmitters being connected in a daisy-chain series and receivers alsobeing added being connected in a daisy-chain series where onetransmitter is connected to one receiver. This scalable configurationallows transmission over any distance within a structure or any distancepractically required. In optional scalable star configurationembodiments one or more nodes are included that are configured toreceive signals from transmitters, or daisy-chains of transmitters orother nodes and to relay any signals to receivers or daisy-chains ofreceivers or another node where a matrix (e.g. 24×24) can switch anyinput signal from any input from any connected transmitter or daisychain of transmitters or another node to any output to any connectedreceiver, daisy-chain of receivers, or node. Node system embodimentscontain a device with a circuit board and are controlled by an internalmicrocontroller and memory interface for regulating signal flow. Somescalable node embodiments are practically unlimited for size sincetransmitters, nodes, and receivers can be added to expand the starconfiguration without limit. In other node embodiments the node containsone or more de-multiplexers each configured to receive a combinedmultiple signals from one cable or one cable twisted pair and decode itinto separated signals for relaying to the matrix and one or moremultiplexers each configured to combine multiple separated signals fromthe matrix into one combined signal and output to each cable or eachcable twisted pair to a receiver, daisy-chain of receivers or anothernode. In still other embodiments the node contains a network switch(e.g. Ethernet switch). Some node embodiments have external powersource.

In some embodiments where a certain degree of long or extended distancesignal transmission is required an Extender device can be included. EachExtender contains a circuit board with daisy chain extender circuit toequalize and recondition the signal for further transmission. Just likethe transmitters and receivers, one or multiple Extender can bedaisy-chained with one or multiple transmitters, receivers or nodes foreven longer distance transmission.

The connections between transmitters and receivers of the video audiosystem are made with a cable. In contemplated embodiments optical cablecan be used to carry numerous signals. In some embodiments a twistedpair cable and RJ45 connectors are used. In many embodiments eightconductor quad twisted-pair cable is used with a set of eight pinsconfigured to receive individual wires from the four twisted pairs,where none of the two individual wires from each of the four twistedpairs are separated by an intervening individual wire from anothertwisted pair. In one embodiment the pin/pairs are configured as follows:pin 1 and 2 are for the first and second wire of twisted pair 3; pin 3and 4 are for the first and second wire of twisted pair 2; pin 5 and 6are for the first and second wire of twisted pair 1; and pin 7 and 8 arefor the first and second wire of twisted pair 4. In another similarembodiment the pin/pairs are configured as follows: pin 1 and 2 are forthe first and second wires of twisted pair 2 and wherein pin 3 and 4 arefor the first and second wires of twisted pair 3. These straightpin/pair configurations allow improved common mode noise rejection,reduced crosstalk and improved impedance characteristics. Performanceimprovements are much more significant with the high speed digital videosignal transmission in the multiple Gbps data rate.

The video audio system provides a method employing system configurationand control software to perform digital signal switching anddistribution for display. In these embodiments a signal is provided fromthe video audio device in one or more formats, for example, VGA/audio,DisplayPort, HDMI, or optionally DiiVA. The signal goes into one or moretransmitter of a daisy-chain connected series of transmitters via acable. The signal path flows from the input device into and through thetransmitter or chain of transmitters or node where the signal isconverted into a common signal format (e.g. HDMI) using signal converteror scaler circuits on the circuit board of the transmitter. If more thanone inputs are fed to one transmitter, the signal is selected by aswitcher, configured on the circuit board of the transmitter or node andis inserted as input into the signal path. Each transmitter has a daisychain processor configured on the circuit board to insert such signalsinto the signal path to flow through the transmitter or chain oftransmitters or pass through the signals from the connected transmitteror receiver or node in the upstream. The signal is transmitted bylinking one of the transmitters to a receiver (or optionally through anode or nodes, or a daisy-chained connected series of receivers). Thesignal path flows from an individual transmitter or through a chain oftransmitters if there is more than one transmitter, to an individualreceiver and then through the chain of receivers if there is more thanone receiver. In some embodiments a node may be placed betweentransmitters and receivers or daisy-chains of these devices. Eachreceiver extracts signals for display on a display device (e.g. monitor,projector). Each receiver has a daisy chain processor configured on acircuit board that pass through all signals to the next connected devicewhile extracts selected signal to output to a display unit. In someembodiments a receiver has a built in scaler to convert the daisy chainsignal to a signal format the display is compatible with.

In an optional embodiment control of signal switching and distributionbetween the chain of transmitters and the chain of receivers isperformed by one or more selection button (e.g. labeled Show Me).Activating a selection button on a transmitter allows the signal fromthe source device connected to this transmitter to be inserted into thedaisy chain and ultimately displayed in the display devices connected tothe receivers while overwriting the other source signals on the samesignal lane (path). Generally, the last activated selection buttoncontrols the signal selection for display.

In another optional embodiment a second level of control for signalselection and the routing of signals flowing in the signal path areperformed by connecting a remote control unit to any of the connecteddaisy-chains of transmitters and receivers or node.

In certain embodiments where the span (distance between) from one daisychain device to the next daisy chain device exceeds the maximumtransmission distance, one or multiple extenders can be inserted inbetween in daisy-chains to extend the distance.

In some of these embodiments the video audio signal may bebi-directional where the transmitters and receivers have circuit boardsconfigured for controlling bi-directional transmission. In theseembodiments the system configuration and control software is alsodesigned so that video, audio, Ethernet and control signals can be madeto be sent bi-directionally to and from each device in the system (e.g.Tx, Rx, Ex (Extender), Nd (Node)).

In certain bi-directional embodiment systems at least one or morecomponent duplexer for signal switching and distribution has one or moreinterfaces with a plurality of inputs for receiving a signal from acable from a source device and/or optionally a duplexer. The duplexerinterface also contains a plurality of signal outputs for sending theinput signal out for bi-directional transmission to a device and/or to aduplexer. In optional embodiments the duplexer contains one or moresignal selection controls including a selection button (e.g. Show Me)configured on the duplexer or connected remote control device. In manyembodiment systems a display device is connected to a duplexer of thesystem (e.g. HDTV, Projector). In duplexer embodiments each duplexercontains a circuit board configured with a signal converter/switcherconfigured to receive a plurality of signal input formats; a signalconverter/distributer configured for outputting the plurality ofsignals; a digital receiver configured to receive a signal from anupstream duplexer; a daisy chain processor configured to insert signalinformation into the signal flow path; and a microcontroller configuredfor determining and controlling the signal flow path, whereby theduplexer daisy chain processor connected extracts signal informationfrom the signal flow path for display on a display device connected tothe duplexer. In specific embodiments the duplexer device contains acircuit board configured to receive and output signals selected from thegroup consisting of VGA, audio, DisplayPort, and DiiVA.

Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention willbecome apparent from the following detailed description. It should beunderstood, however, that the detailed description and the specificexamples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, aregiven by way of illustration only, since various changes andmodifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will becomeapparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Presenter Transmitter, Node, Extender, and ReceiverDaisy Chain Scalable Video Audio System

Provided are scalable electronic devices, systems and methods withsystem control software to achieve all the digital video and audiodistribution functions that traditional interfaces, switchers,splitters, matrix switchers and scalers can do by daisy-chainingmultiple transmitters (Tx) and receivers (Rx) and optionally node toform scalable and easy to install systems. To distinguish these new Txand Rx devices from the traditional Tx and Rx devices, embodiments ofthese devices are referred to as “Presenter Tx” and “Presenter Rx”throughout this disclosure.

Referring now to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2; schematically shown is a prior artvideo audio system 100 and Presenter video audio system 200. ThePresenter video audio system 200 is shown with a single source device201 (e.g. laptop, tablet, or DVD/Blu-ray player, or other device)connected to a single display device 207 (e.g. projector or HDTV, orother device) via a single Presenter Tx 203 and Presenter Rx 205component with cables 202, 204, 206. Different embodiments employ cables204 consisting of coaxial cable, Twisted Pair (e.g. Cat6) cable oroptical fiber cable to mediate connections between the components. Thissystem replaces traditional 1×1 signal interface systems 100 shown inFIG. 1. Such prior art systems connect a source device 101 to a centralinterface 103 (or a balun) via a VGA cable 102, and a VGA (or a Cat5)cable 104 to a display device 105.

Referring now to FIG. 4; schematically shown is an embodiment videoaudio system with a plurality of signal devices (e.g. PC/DVD) and aplurality of Presenter Tx components connected to a single Presenter Rxcomponent. This embodiment system replaces traditional signal switchersystems such as those shown in FIG. 3 (below). In this embodiment thesystem 400 can have multiple source devices 401, where each is connectedvia a cable 402 to a Presenter Tx 403 component. These Presenter Tx'sdevices 403 are connected in series by a daisy chained cable 408. Eachcable can be coaxial, Twisted Pair (e.g. Cat6) cable or optical fibercable in different embodiments. Each presenter Tx 403 component is thenconnected to a Presenter Rx 405 component via a cable 404 in someembodiments. Then a Presenter Rx 405 is in turn connected to a displaydevice 411. The signal path flows from each PC/DVD signal device to eachconnected Presenter Tx and downstream from Presenter Tx m to PresenterTx 1 and then from the Presenter Tx 1 to the Presenter Rx and finally tothe display device 411 for display. Control of the signal flow to thedisplay 411 can be via a selection button 410 or switch (e.g. Show Me)or via insertion of a remote control 409 to one of the Tx 403 or Rx 405of the system 400.

In the embodiments where each Presenter Tx component 403 (1-m) has apush activated selection button 410 labeled, for example as “Show Me” orwith another identifier label when a user pushes his/her “Show Me”button 410, the signal from his/her source device 401 will be passedthrough all of the downstream daisy chain of Tx devices 403 (1-m) alongthe signal path and through the Presenter Rx device 405 and then will beshown on the display 411. This simple control can replace the centralcontrol of the display path is and available for all users in thesystem. In other embodiments an optional remote control 409 can beconnected into any of the Presenter Tx 403 or the Presenter Rx 405component to offers a second level of control for the signal. In theseembodiments the remote can control and direct which signal is displayedover the Show Me selection button system. In still other embodimentsother switches or activators may be used in place of buttons or remotecontrols.

Referring now to FIG. 3, schematically shown is a prior art video audiosystem for comparison to embodiments disclosed in FIG. 4. In this priorart system 300 all input signals from PC/DVD devices 301 are connectedby VGA cable 302 to a central switcher 303. The central switcher 303must be configured to receive the required number of input signals (e.g.four are shown) and chooses among these signals for eventual display. Inmany cases a standard transmitter Tx 305 and receiver Rx pair 307 arerequired to boost the signal from the switcher 303 over longer cables306 for long or extended transmission distances encountered in typicalinstallations to a display device 308. In some of these systems remotecontrols 304 can be connected to the central switcher only.

Referring now to FIG. 6, schematically shown is an embodiment videoaudio system 600 where a single source device 601 is connected to aPresenter Tx device 603 and daisy chain of Presenter Rx devices 605 eachconnected to a display device 608. This system 600 replaces traditionalsignal splitter systems shown below in FIG. 5 for comparison purposes.In this embodiment the Presenter Tx device 603 is connected to pluralityor multiple daisy-chained Presenter Rx devices 605 via a cable 604 and607 (e.g. coaxial, Twisted Pair or optical fiber cable) in between eachPresenter Rx 605 component. Each Rx device 605 is then also connected bycable to a display device 608. The signal flow is transmitted throughoutthe daisy chain of Presenter Rx components 605 from bottom to top (1-n)along the signal path, and then is outputted to all display devices 608.In embodiments the number of Presenter Rx components is scalable andadded components can be connected to the daisy chain as needed. Thisallows flexible addition of units as needed without need to reconfigurethe system.

Referring now to FIG. 5, schematically shown is a prior art video audiosystem 500 used for splitting a single signal into multiple signals fordisplay on multiple display devices 508. In this prior art system 500 acentral splitter 503 is set with a specified number of output capacity(shown is a 1×4 splitter). This splitter in addition to being fixed fornumber of the outputs typically can receive only one signal type andmust have multiple cables 506 as outputs from the central location todisplay devices. When the distance from the central splitter to displayunits is long, often required in many installations, additional standardTx 505 Rx 507 pairs are mandatory to boost transmission over such longerdistances to the display units.

Referring now to FIG. 8, schematically shown is an embodiment videoaudio system configured to receive a plurality of input signals fromsource devices and a plurality of Presenter Tx and Presenter Rxcomponents to rout signals for display. This system replaces traditionalsignal matrix switcher systems shown below in FIG. 7 for comparisonpurposes. In this embodiment system 800, there are multiple sourcedevices 801, each connected to a Presenter Tx 803 device and eachconnected to each other in the daisy chain configuration. Each of thePresenter Tx 803 components are in turn connected to a Presenter Rxcomponents 805, each of which are connected to multiple display devices808. In this embodiment all of the Presenter Tx 803 (1-m) and Rx 805(1-n) devices are daisy-chained in series with cables 807 (e.g. coaxial,Twisted Pair, optical fiber cable). The signal path flows from eachsource device to the cognate Presenter Tx and then downstream throughthe Presenter Tx daisy chain to the connected Presenter Rx and then upthrough the Presenter Rx daisy chain with outputs to each cognatedisplay unit. Multiple remote control devices 806 can be connected toany point of the system to define the signal routing as a second levelof control, which ultimately determines which source goes to whichdisplay. Also the Presenter Tx components of this embodiment canoptionally have the signal selection Show Me button for putting a firstlevel of signal selection control on the signal flow path (not shown).Finally, additional Presenter Tx 803 or Presenter Rx 805 devices can beadded to this scalable system 807.

Referring now to FIG. 7, schematically shown is a prior art video audiosystem with a matrix switcher. In this prior art system 700 the centralmatrix switcher 703 receives the input signals from source devices 701and selects which signals are selected to proceed to a display unit 708.As with such prior art devices the central location requires input andoutput cables come from this central location. Also if a significantdistance exists between source devices 701 and the matrix switcher 703or between the display devices 708 and the same matrix switcheradditional paired standard Tx 705 and Rx 707 devices are required tomediate transmission over such longer distance cable 706. Alsoadditional signal format converters (scalers) 702 must often be added tochange signal format when the input signals are different from thematrix signal format. Similarly additional signal format converters(scalers) 709 must often be added to change signal format when thesignals the displays are capable of showing are different from thematrix signal format. Remote controls 704 also must connect to thecentral matrix switcher 703.

In most all of the embodiment Presenter systems referred to above withequivalent functions for mediating traditional interfaces, switchers,splitters, matrix switchers and scalers of variety input and outputsizes can all be replaced by the Presenter Tx and Presenter Rx, andoptionally Presenter node (Nd) and Presenter extender components (Ex).For example, a 7×4 signal distribution system would consist of 7Presenter Tx and 4 Presenter Rx devices connected in a daisy-chainedseries together. This system flexibility will dramatically reduce thenumber of product models manufacturer need to make, re-sellers need tocarry and installers need to use. Further this video audio system isinfinitely scalable simply by adding sequential individual Presenter Txand Presenter Rx components or Presenter Nd components to a daisy chainor connection multiple chains with Presenter node. Installers can add asmany Presenter Tx and source devices; as many as Presenter Rx, PresenterNd and display devices as needed to a new system or an existing system.In some cases the Presenter Ex can be used for long intervals betweenPresenter components. This Presenter system offers the ability to spanany distance within a structure or most any practical distance requiredby daisy-chaining multiple Presenter Tx, Presenter Rx, Presenter Nd, orPresenter Ex devices.

All the Presenter systems have the flexibility to take in multiplesignals including but not limited to VGA, HDMI, DisplayPort, and DiiVAsignal format for maximum source compatibility. The Presenter systemoffers output multiple signal formats including but are not limited toHDMI or VGA signal format for maximum display compatibility. Incontemplated embodiments, if a new signal format is created in thefuture, the system can be engineered to replace or augment one PresenterTx or Rx device rendering this device compatible with the new signalformat.

Since there is only one cable at any point of the system, theinstallation is very easy and clean. Further, cable length can be keptshort in many installations due to the flexibility of the daisy chainconfiguration for Presenter Tx and Presenter Rx components. Installerscan find the next closest device and link them with a single cablewithout having to lay long cables in most cases. All daisy chainconnections are made by a single cable (e.g. coaxial, Twisted Pair (e.g.Cat6) or optical fiber cable), making the wire pulling and terminationeasy to accomplish. The daisy chain configuration also allows virtuallyan infinite range of signal transmission as long as there's a Tx or Rxor Ex device within the max single run distance.

In order to better understand the Presenter video audio embodimentsindividual components of the system are discussed below.

Presenter Transmitter (Tx)

Referring now to FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B, schematically shown are embodimentinterfaces for a Presenter Tx component and the circuit board blockdiagram for the same. In FIG. 9A representative interfaces 900A areshown with a first interface (e.g. front, top panel) that containsmultiple signal inputs (left to right) that come from cables fromvarious source devices such as computers, tablets/iPads, DVD/Blu-rayplayers, and smart phones/iPhones. These input connectors include butare not limited to: a female VGA input connector 901 (computer/smartphone), a female mini jack input connector 902 for analog audio signal(smart phone/iPhone), and a female HDMI input connector 903(computer/Blu-ray player), and a female DisplayPort input connector 904(computer). In other embodiments a female DiiVA connector can beincluded or other connectors for newly developed or proprietary adoptedsignal formats (not shown).

The first interface is also shown with a set of three light emittingdiodes (LEDs) 905 which indicate which signal format is selected. Inother embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or more LED indicators can beincluded for showing the signal selected. The tactile selection or pushbutton 906 (also called the Show Me button) that selects select which ofthe 3 input signals to be sent (inserted) to the daisy-chain andultimately to the display. The selection button also serves as Show Mecontrol button which enables this transmitter to feed (insert) thesignals to the daisy chain of Presenter transmitters while all othertransmitters and receivers serve in by-pass mode if the main secondlevel remote controller allows or does not override this control.

In FIG. 9A, a second representative embodiment interface 900A is shown(e.g. back, bottom panel). In this embodiment (left to right) a femalecaptive screw power input connector 907 provides a plug from which anoptional external power supply can be connected. Next is a female RJ45input connector 908 from which the digital signal from another upstreamtransmitter in the daisy-chain series of connectors comes in where it isconverted into the digital signal format of the transmitter daisy chain.Another output connector 909 is next from which either the digitalsignal from the upstream transmitter of the daisy-chain (by-pass) or oneselected input signal of the 3 input signals (insertion) comes out tothe next device downstream. In one embodiment the signal feed is 1single feed per cable (100s). In other embodiments the signal feed is 3signal feeds per cable (300s). In other embodiments the signal feed is 6feeds per cable (600s). In still other embodiments the signal feed canbe any multiple feeds per cable (e.g., 2, 4, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60,70, 80, 90 and 100 or more). This is followed by another female RJ45connector 910 from which a two way Ethernet signals or other networksignals come in and out and are transmitted through the transmitter andreceiver daisy-chains or optionally via a node or nodes of the system. Afemale captive screw connector 911 follows from which the serial controlsignals in RS-232 format (or other format e.g. RS-485) comes in and outand is transmitted through the daisy-chain to and from othertransmitters and receivers in the daisy chain to control the signal flowin the system and other device functions. Finally, a female captivescrew connector 912 is shown from which an optional external contactclosure type control device with a tactile push button switch isconnected to form the same function as the 906 button on another (front)panel of the device. Other embodiments may employ switches, toggles, orother activators for similar functions. In still other embodiments thetransmitter may have at least one interface with least one or aplurality of inputs and at least one or a plurality outputs which mayserve similar but yet distinct functions related to signal selection andcontrol based on signal input or output requirements from customizedinstallations.

Referring now to FIG. 9B, schematically shown is an embodiment circuitboard for a representative Presenter Tx. A representative Tx circuitboard 900B is shown where the signal inputs are shown for VGA in 901,Audio in 902, and HDMI in 903 and DisplayPort in 904, as well as aserial binary single-ended data and control signals RS-232 control in911, and external and optional Show Me input 912. The VGA and audiosignals are converted into HDMI format by a VGA/audio scaler 922. TheDisplayPort signal is converted to HDMI format by a DisplayPort to HDMIconverter 923. In other embodiments added signals such as DiiVA or othernew or proprietary formats can be added to the IC (not shown). Thesesignals are selected by switcher, e.g. shown is a 3×1 HDMI switcher 921.In other embodiments other switchers can be employed for accommodatingmore or less signals (e.g. 1×1; 1×2; 2×1; 2×2; 4×1; 1×4; 4×2; 2×4; 4×4;. . . ; all the way to 256×256, or other combinations). The HDMI insignal 903 also connects to the HDMI switcher 921. The HDMI switcherthen is connected to a digital transmitter and daisy-chain matrixprocessor 920 for signal transmission. In some embodiments thetransmitter only has one HDMI input and no built in scaler or switcher.The control signal 911 and External Show Me control in 912 and selectionbutton 906 are connected to the microcontroller 924 and memory interface925 and then to the HDMI switcher 921 and separately to the daisy-chainprocesser 920. An encoder 926 converts industry standard or proprietaryformat signals into a format for transmission via the daisy chainprocessor 920 through the daisy chain of Presenter Tx and Rx and othercomponents. In many embodiments this daisy chain signal format isoptimized for long distance transmission and for multiple signal flow.

The transmitter circuit board is also connected to the series ofdaisy-chain of transmitters by connectors in 908 and out 909 via cables.In some embodiments a node may be placed to connect to transmitters ordaisy-chains of transmitters and to receivers and daisy-chains ofreceivers (see FIG. 12). Power 907 and the network, e.g. Ethernet 910also are connected to the digital transmitter and daisy chain processor920. A software program provides for the command query for initialmapping of the transmitter and for signal routing (see FIG. 20A; FIG.20C). In operation, generally one of the signal formals (i.e. VGA/audio;DisplayPort, HDMI or DiiVA) is selected as the common signal format forthe daisy-chain; any other input signal formats are converted to thiscommon signal format. The software and microcontroller 924 and memoryinterface 925 select and control the signal flow, and switching throughthe transmitter and daisy-chain of transmitters. Depending on the signaltype the scaler or converters change the signal into HDMI where the HDMIswitcher passes the signal to the digital and daisy chain processor 920where signal information is formatted for transmission and is insertedby the processor into the signal path for transmission out of thetransmitter and ultimately to a receiver or receivers. The specific LEDindicates the particular input is selected to be sent through thetransmitter on the interface.

Presenter Receiver (Rx)

Referring now to FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B, schematically shown areembodiment interfaces for a representative Presenter Rx and circuitboard for the same. In FIG. 10A two embodiment interfaces 1000A areshown (e.g. top panel: front; bottom panel: rear). In the top panel(front) a power indicator 1001 is illuminated if the component getssufficient power either from an external power supply input 1004 or fromthe power riding on the daisy-chain and coming in from either upstreaminput 1005 or downstream output 1006. A female VGA output 1002 and audiooutput 1003 are located also on this interface (front). In otherembodiments the Presenter Rx has at least one interface or alternately aplurality of interfaces to mediate connection based on signal input oroutput requirements from customized installations.

In the bottom panel shown is a representative interface 1000A (rear)with input and output connectors (left to right) including a femalecaptive screw power input connector 1004 from which the optionalexternal power supply is plugged into the Presenter Rx component. Nextis a female RJ45 input 1005 from which the digital signal from upstreamtransmitters or receivers in the daisy-chain is input into, and a femaleRJ45 connector 1006 outputs signal (by-passing) to the next receiverdownstream. Next is a female RJ45 connector 1007 from which the two-wayEthernet signals come in and out and is transmitted through the daisychain to and from other connected series of daisy chain receivers andtransmitters if there are more than one of each. Next is a female HDMIoutput connector 1008 from which the digital signal from the upstreamtransmitters or receivers of the daisy-chain is output in the decodedHDMI format to a display device like a projector or a HDTV. In oneembodiment the signal feed is 1 single feed per cable (100s). In otherembodiments the signal feed is 3 signal feeds per cable (300s). In otherembodiments the signal feed is 6 feeds per cable (600s). In still otherembodiments the signal feed can be any multiple feeds per cable (e.g.,2, 4, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 and 100 or more). Next is afemale captive screw receiver connector 1009 from which the serialcontrol signals in RS-232 or other signal (e.g. RS-485) format comes inand out and is transmitted through the daisy-chain to and from othertransmitters and receivers and nodes in the daisy-chain to control thesignal flow in the system and other device functions.

Referring now to FIG. 10B, schematically shown is an embodiment circuitboard for a representative Presenter Rx component. The circuit board1000B receives six digital signal inputs into the digital receiver viaconnector 1005 and to daisy chain processor 1020. The six digitalsignals are sent out via the connector 1006 to other receivers in thedaisy chain series (by-passing) to the next receiver (or node)downstream. The digital signal from upstream transmitters or receiversis extracted from the daisy-chain and decoded from the daisy chainformat into HDMI format (or other industry standard or proprietaryformat) by decoder 1024 and fed to HDMI splitter 1023 (e.g. 1×2) then toHDMI to VGA scaler 1025, which converts HDMI to VGA and output todisplay via connector 1002. An audio extractor 1027 is also connected tothe HDMI splitter 1023 to extract audio from the HDMI and output toconnector 1003. The HDMI signal is output to connector 1008. In someembodiment the receiver only has one HDMI output and has no built insplitter or audio extractor. The microcontroller 1021 and memoryinterface 1022 receives the serial control signals in from connector1009 and transmits it through the daisy-chain for system control. Serialcontrol signals in RS-232 1007 or other signal (e.g. RS-485) formatcomes in and out and power can be provided from an external source 1004.A network switch provides an Ethernet connection 1007 to the internet.

Presenter Node (Nd)

Referring now to FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, schematically shown in FIG. 11 isa prior art large matrix switcher system and shown in FIG. 12 is ascalable Presenter video audio node containing system. Referring firstto FIG. 12, shown is a system 1200 with four daisy-chains of Presentertransmitters (Tx) 1203 with each Presenter Tx individually connected toa signal source device (e.g. PC, DVD player). A remote control 1202 isshown connected that can be inserted anywhere in the system's chain. Inembodiments a node or nodes 1201 are connected to transmitters ordaisy-chains of transmitters. In one embodiment four transmitterdaisy-chains connect via separate inputs on an interface of thePresenter node (Nd). Four receiver daisy-chains 1204 are connected tothe node output and to display devices (e.g. HDTV or Projectors). BothPresenter transmitters and Presenter receivers are connected via cablewhich may be any type including but not limited to Cat5, Ca6, cable aswell as other forms such as coaxial, and optical fiber.

In other embodiment the inputs on a node may be more from 5, 6, 7, 8, 9,10 or more as required by the application. In other embodiments multiplenodes can be added to the system without limit for the number and may beused for points to branch the system in a star-configuration from eithertransmitters or receivers of their daisy-chains of Presentertransmitters and Presenter receivers.

In contrast the FIG. 11 prior art Large matrix switcher system 1100 eachsignal source 1103 in connected directly to a standard transmitter (Tx),a standard receiver (Rx) 1104 and a scaler to a traditional matrixswitcher 1102 (e.g. 24×24) that can be remote controlled 1101 and alsodirectly connected to similar set ups on the output end. Each of theseconnections requires a dedicated cable making the installationcumbersome requiring numerous cables and components.

Referring now to FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B schematically shown areembodiments of Presenter node (Nd) interfaces and the circuit blockdiagram of the same. In FIG. 13A representative interfaces are shown1300A (front and back). The first front interface 1301 contains a powerindicator. The second interface back contains a series of connectors(left to right) including but not limited to a female captive screwpower input connector 1302 from which the optional external power supplyis plugged into the node 1300A. Next are a series of inputs 1304followed by outputs 1305 (e.g. shown for RJ45). In one embodiment thesignal feed is 1 single feed per cable (100s). In other embodiments thesignal feed is 3 signal feeds per cable (300s). In other embodiments thesignal feed is 6 feeds per cable (600s). In still other embodiments thesignal feed can be any multiple feeds per cable (e.g., 2, 4, 5, 10, 20,30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 and 100 or more). A network switch 1306 (e.g.Ethernet) may be present in embodiments that allows connection to theinternet. Next is a female captive screw receiver connector 1303 fromwhich the serial control signals in RS-232 or other signal (e.g. RS-485)format comes in and out and is transmitted through the daisy-chain toand from other Presenter node or Presenter transmitters and Presenterreceivers and other Presenter nodes in the daisy-chain to control thesignal flow in the system and other device functions.

Referring now to FIG. 13B schematically shown is an embodiment of a nodecircuit block diagram 1300B. In this configuration the signal inputs areshown (left) 1320 and outputs (right) 1324 (each shown with 6 signalfeeds). Optional embodiment De-multiplexers 1336 can receive combinedsignals from each input cable or each twisted pair and decode it intomultiple separated signals and feed the signal to any sized matrix 1322(e.g. 24×24; 12×12; 48×48; 96×96; 256×256; multiple×multiple up to512×512 or other combinations). The signal can be routed to optionalmultiplexers 1338 for encoding several signals into one combined signalto each output cable or each twisted pair. In embodiments any inputsignal 1320 can be routed to any output 1324. In other embodiments othermatrix switchers can be employed for accommodating more or less signals(e.g. 1×1; 1×2; 2×1; 2×2; 4×1; 1×4; 4×2; 2×4; 4×4; . . . ; all the wayto 256×256 and 512×512 or other combinations). Power 1326 and thenetwork switch, e.g. Ethernet 1330, 1332 also are connected to thePresenter node circuit board matrix 1322. A software program providesfor the command query for signal routing from a microcontroller 1327 andmemory interface 1328 which selects and controls the signal flow viaserial data and control signals RS-232 1334 (or RS-485). Depending onthe system type any of the input signals is output to any of the outputsfrom the node to downstream receivers, daisy-chains of receivers andother Presenter nodes.

Presenter Extender (Ex)

Referring now to FIG. 14 and FIG. 15, schematically shown is arepresentative embodiment of a prior art Extender system 1400 forextending signal transmission range and a Presenter system 1500 withPresenter transmitters (Tx), Presenter receivers (Rx), and Presenterextenders (Ex). Referring first to FIG. 15, in this embodiment a signalfeed signal comes from a source device 1502 and provides input via acable 1505 to a Presenter transmitter (Tx) 1504 which is connected tomultiple (e.g. two) Presenter extenders (Ex) 1506 in series followed bya Presenter receiver (Rx) 1508 and then to a display device 1510 via acable 1505. Each device is connected together is series by a cable 1507.The cable 1505 from the signal device and to the display device can be aVGA, DisplayPort or HDMI cable. The Presenter system is completelyscalable and can go virtually unlimited distance by daisy-chaining asmany Presenter components (e.g. Presenter Tx, Nd, Ex and Rx as needed(multiple spans)). In contract in FIG. 14 the prior art system has asignal (left) from a source device 1402 (e.g. PC, DVD) over a standardcable 1405 to a standard transmitter (Tx) 1404 and thru a long cable1407 (e.g. twisted pair cable), and connected to a standard receiver(Rx) 1408 and connected to the display 1406 via cable 1405. Sincethere's only one pair of the standard Tx and Rx is allowed in this priorart system, the maximum distance is limited to one span.

Referring first to FIG. 16A and FIG. 16B schematically shown arePresenter extender (Ex) interfaces 1600A (Top: front and Bottom: back)and the internal circuit board 1600B of the same. Certain embodimentPresenter Ex have a front 1602 with power indicator and back with afemale captive screw power input connector 1604 from which the optionalexternal power supply is plugged into the Extender (Ex) and input 1606and output 1608 for cable connectors (e.g. RJ45 connectors). In oneembodiment the signal feed is 1 single feed per cable (100s). In otherembodiments the signal feed is 3 signal feeds per cable (300s). In otherembodiments the signal feed is 6 feeds per cable (600s). In still otherembodiments the signal feed can be any multi feeds per cable (e.g., 2,4, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 and 100 or more).

Referring now to FIG. 16B the Extender 16008 receives the digital signalvia cable 1610 and equalizes and reconditions the signal via a DC (DaisyChain) extender 1614, functioning as a repeater, then the extender sendsthe signal out to the next daisy chain device via cable 1612. Power 1618can be provided from an external power supply to the circuit 1616 tooperate the Presenter extender. In other embodiments power comes fromthe cable of daisy-chains of transmitters, receivers, and optionallynodes (remote power capability).

RJ45 Connector and Twisted Pair Pin/Pair Placement

Referring to FIG. 17 and FIG. 18 schematically shown is a representativeprior art pin/pair placement and embodiment for a new RJ45 pin/pairconfiguration. In the new configuration shown in FIG. 18, the wires ofeach of the 4 twisted pairs of a twisted pair cable are terminatedimmediately next to each other with no separation or crossover, whichimproves the impedance characteristics, improves the common mode noiserejection and minimizes crosstalk between pairs. These improvements areeven more significant in the high frequency of the digital video signalsin multiple Gbps data rate. In FIG. 18 shown is the Luxi A configurationwhere the order of the pin/pairs for the two individual wires is asfollows 1801: Pair 3 to pin 1 and pin 2; Pair 2 to pin 3 and pin 4; Pair1 to pin 5 and pin 6; Pair 4 to pin 7 and pin 8 (left panel). For theLuxi B configuration the order of the pin/pairs for the two individualwires is as follows 1802: Pair 2 to pin 1 and pin 2; Pair 3 to pin 3 andpin 4; Pair 1 to pin 5 and pin 6; Pair 4 to pin 7 and pin 8 (rightpanel). The key is that no two individual wires are separated from anytwisted pair and no wires from different pairs are crossed over

Referring now to FIG. 17, schematically shown are prior art T568A (leftpanel) and T568B (right panel) pin/pair placements for comparison. Forboth A/B the two individual wires of either Pair 2 1701 (pins 3 and 6)or Pair 3 1702 (pins 3 and 6) are separated thus the impedance ischanged from an optimal value; in addition, the crosstalk between pin 2and 3, 3 and 4, 5 and 6, 6 and 7 would degrade the signal quality of all4 pairs. For digital signal transmission this pin/pair configurationincreases the crosstalk and impairs impedance characteristics due tohigh bandwidth requirements and is thus problematic.

Methods and Software for Video Audio Switching and Distribution

Referring now collectively to FIG. 19 schematically shown is arepresentative methods 1900, the left half shows the devices involved ineach step; the right half shows the functions of each step. One or moresignals from a source device 1907 (e.g. computer, tablet, smart phone)are input into a transmitter 1908 in function 1901. In some embodimentsmultiple transmitters can be connected in a daisy-chain configuration.The signal is converted in function 1902 into a common signal format(e.g. HDMI), then encoded into a digital signal for daisy-chain and canflow through the transmitter daisy-chain in function 1903. In mostembodiments one of the transmitters is connected by a cable to areceiver which may be connected on one or more receivers in a daisychain configuration. Each of the receivers 1909 can relay the signal tothe downstream receiver in function 1904, and decode the signal by firstextracting specific information from the signal path and then convertingit to a display format in function 1906 for transmitting to a displaydevice 1912. In some embodiment methods optional steps 1905 ofcontrolling signal switching along the signal path can done by: (1)activating a selection button 1910 (e. g. labeled “Show Me”; can also bea switch, toggle, or other activator) located on a transmitter; (2)Inserting a remote control 1911 via connecting it to one of thetransmitters 1908 or receivers 1909 in the daisy-chains of the systemfor control of the signal to a display device 1912. In function 1903,the transmitters can insert one (single-feed) or multiple (multi-feed)signals to the daisy chain while passing the rest of the signals to thenext connected device. In function 1905, the receivers can accept one(single-feed) or multiple (multi-feed) signals from the daisy-chain andselect which signal to be decoded for the local display while passingall signals to the next connected device in the chain. In specificembodiment methods for large systems Presenter nodes may be connected toprovide a step for signal switching between transmitters, daisy-chainsof transmitters and receivers and daisy-chains of receivers anywhere inthe system creating a star-configuration (See FIG. 12).

Referring specifically to FIG. 20, FIG. 21A and FIG. 21B, arepresentative initial system device mapping method and softwareflowcharts. The system mapping configuration 2000 occurs when the systemis powered up, when a new device plugged in, or when a request is sentfrom the remote control. When one of these 3 conditions happens, eachPresenter Tx 2002 and Presenter Rx 2003 or Presenter node (not shown)would ping the possible device located upstream and downstream in adaisy-chain. Based on the response to the pings, the direct connectionbetween a Presenter Tx and Presenter Rx is set as the reference point2001, then all Presenter Tx 2002 and Presenter Rx 2003 or Presenter node(not shown) devices are identified by the sequential numbers where theimmediate Presenter Tx and Presenter Rx is No. 1, and the further awaythe Tx and Rx or node is from the reference point, higher theidentification number. The numbers of the Presenter Tx and Presenter Rxor Presenter node furthest away from the reference point, M and Nrespectively, defines this system as an M×N system. Once the M and N arebroadcasted throughout the daisy-chain, the signal routing commandsdescribed in the next section cannot contain the input number higherthan M or output number higher than N. In other embodiments the deviceswould be identified by a variety of means including but not limited toordering or mapping by numbers, names, and reference letters as would beapparent to one skilled in the art.

Referring now to FIG. 21C, schematically shown is a representativesoftware scheme for performing routing 2108 control of video audiosignals of the Presenter system. The routing command is m*ns; the m isthe input signal number and the n is the output signal number; m cannotbe bigger than the max Presenter Tx ID number M as identified in thesteps in the last section; and n cannot be bigger than the max PresenterRx ID number N. The “s” is an example of a switching command. When am*ns command is broadcast in the daisy-chain, the Presenter Tx componentwith the matching number m will insert video and audio signals from thesource device into the daisy-chain. All other Presenter Tx componentswill by-pass the signal in the daisy-chain. For Presenter Rx componentsthe device with the identification number that matches the n willextract the signal from the daisy-chain for converting and sending tothe display device. In other embodiments the system configurationsoftware can be made to control bi-directional signal flow through asystem. Since the routing command contains both input Presenter Tx IDnumber and output Presenter Rx ID number, it is independent from wherethis command is issued, thus the remote controller can be connected toany point in the system. Multiple routing commands can be issues insequence; if there's a conflict between 2 commands, the later commandtake control. In other embodiments the control commands would beidentified by the variety of means including but not limited to bynumbers, names, and reference letters as would be apparent to oneskilled in the art.

Presenter Duplexer

Referring now to FIG. 22, schematically shown is a representativePresenter video audio system featuring a Duplexer configured forbi-directional signal flow. In this embodiment system 2200 Duplexercomponents 2201 are connected in series a daisy-chain where the numberis scalable with added units easily connected to the chain depending oninstallation requirements. Each Duplexer 2202 can receive one or moreinput signals from a source device 2201 (e.g. PC, DVD/Blu-Ray Player)and send out one or more output signals to a display device 2204 (e.g.HDTV, Projector). In some embodiments separate Duplexer daisy-chains areconnected together via cable. Each series of Duplexer daisy-chains canboth send and receive bi-directional signals 2203 along the chain and toother Duplexer daisy-chains. The signal from any source device in thissystem can be routed to any display device in this system in anydirection. In certain embodiments a remote control device can beinserted into the system anywhere 2205 and a signal selection button ortoggle/switch (e.g. labeled Show Me, or other designator) controls thesignal selection allowing the signal to by-pass other Duplexers in thechain for routing to a display. In these and other embodiments a remotecontrol can be added to any Duplexer throughout the system offering asecond level of signal control. In still other embodiments the remotecontrol can be connected via a wireless receiver which is connected to aDuplexer. The control signals, including but not limited to RS-485,RS-232, USB, IR (Inferred) and RF signals, can be routed to and from anydevices in any direction.

Referring now to FIG. 23, schematically shown is a representativeembodiment Duplexer circuit board 2300. In this embodiment the circuitboard in configured to receive a bi-directional signal 2312 from theseries of daisy-chain of Duplexer components or source devices. Inembodiments the input signal from a cable 2301 is a bi-directionalsignal 2312 flows into a digital transmitter 2310 which inserts signalinformation into the signal path for extraction and output from adaisy-chain processor 2310 for output as a bi-directional signal 2313 todownstream Duplexers 2302 of the daisy-chain or to a signalconverter/distributer 2308 and then to a plurality of signal outputconnectors. Power input 2314 and two-way network switch, e.g. Ethernet2315 input signals also enter the digital transmitter 2310 and then thedaisy chain processor 2310. A plurality of input signals 2303 from asource device including VGA, audio, DisplayPort, HDMI, and optionallyDiiVA (not shown) flows into an integrated circuit (IC) signalconverter/switcher 2307 where the signal is converted and selected fortransmission to the daisy chain processor 2310. The circuit board alsohas the plurality of signal converter/switcher connected to a signalconverter/distributer 2308 where outputs for VGA, audio, DisplayPort,HDMI, and optionally DiiVA (not shown) via connectors 2304. In otherembodiments other switchers can be employed for accommodating more orless signals (e.g. 1×1; 1×2; 2×1; 2×2; 4×1; 1×4; 4×2; 2×4; 4×4; . . . ;all the way to 256×256, or other combinations). In some embodiment theDuplex only has one HDMI input and one HDMI output and has no built inswitcher, splitter or scaler.

Signal control software regulates a microcontroller 2309 and memoryinterface (not shown) which receives control signals (e.g. RS232) 2317that from an external source that comes in and out for overall controlof signal flow, priority and volume through the daisy-chain to and fromother Duplexers to control the signal flow in the system and otherdevice functions. In some embodiments a universal serial bus (USB) input2316 is present to provide input signals from a USB device. In manyembodiments the signal selection input 2305 and control button 2306feeds into the microcontroller.

In other embodiments each Presenter component and circuitry (e.g.Transmitter (Tx), Receiver (Rx), Node (Nd), Extender (Ex) and Duplexer)can be integrated into other video audio devices including but notlimited to source devices (e.g. computer, DVD/Blu-ray player, tablet,smart phone) display devices (e.g. HDTC, projector) or other auxiliarydevices (e.g. printers, controllers, smart cables, satellite set-top box(STB), AV receiver/transmitter, or other like devices).

All of the devices and methods disclosed and claimed in this applicationcan be made and executed without undue experimentation in light of thepresent disclosure. While the devices and methods of this invention havebeen described in terms of preferred embodiments, it will be apparent tothose of skill in the art that variations may be applied to the devicesand methods for components and in the steps or in the sequence of stepsof the method described in this application without departing from theconcept, spirit and scope of the invention. More specifically, it willbe apparent that certain materials or components which are both relatedmay be substituted for making the devices or accomplishing the methodsthe agents described in this application while the same or similarfunctionality would be achieved. All such similar substitutes andmodifications apparent to those skilled in the art are deemed to bewithin the spirit, scope and concept of the invention as defined by theappended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A digital video audio signal switching anddistribution system comprising: at least one component transmitter forsignal switching and distribution, wherein each of the at least onetransmitters are connected in a daisy chain series via cables if thereis more than one transmitter; at least one interface with at least oneinput for receiving a signal from a cable from a source device oranother transmitter or a node on each of the at least one transmitters;at least one interface with at least one output for relaying a signalfrom a cable to a receiver or a node on each of the at least onetransmitters; optionally at least one node configured to receive atleast one signal from any connected transmitter or daisy chain oftransmitters and to output the at least one signal to any connectedreceiver or daisy chain of receivers; at least one component receiverfor distributing signals, wherein each of the at least one receivers areconnected to each other in a daisy chain series via cables if there ismore than one receiver and optionally to a node if there is a node; atleast one interface with at least one input for receiving signals from acable from a transmitter or from other receivers or a node on each ofthe at least one receivers; at least one interface with at least oneoutput for sending a signal from a cable to a display unit or anotherreceiver or a node on each of the at least one receivers; andoptionally, at least one display unit having an interface with at leastone input for receiving a signal from a cable from a receiver.
 2. Thevideo audio signal switching and distribution system of claim 1, furthercomprising at least one cable for providing an input signal from a videoaudio device.
 3. The video audio signal switching and distributionsystem of claim 1, further comprising at least one input selectionbutton on each of the at least one transmitters, whereby activating aselection button on a transmitter selects the signal directed from thattransmitter to proceed through all of the transmitters and all of thereceivers to an at least one display unit, and wherein the lastactivated selection button controls the signal flow path.
 4. The videoaudio signal switching and distribution system of claim 1, furthercomprising at least one remote control unit positioned at one or more ofa plurality of positions within the connected series of daisy chainseries of transmitters and daisy chain series of receivers providing fora second level of control for signal routing to the at least one displayunit.
 5. The video audio signal switching and distribution system ofclaim 1, wherein each of the transmitters and receivers have an Ethernetinput connection for accessing the internet, wherein any of thetransmitters and receivers can serve as internet access points for anyvideo audio device connected to a transmitter of the system, and wherebyall connected video audio devices connected to a transmitter of thesystem would have internet access via internet signals that aretransmitted through the connected series of daisy chain series oftransmitters and daisy chain series of receivers.
 6. The video audiosignal switching and distribution system of claim 1, wherein there isone transmitter and one receiver.
 7. The video audio signal switchingand distribution system of claim 1, wherein there is a plurality oftransmitters and one receiver.
 8. The video audio signal switching anddistribution system of claim 1, wherein there is one transmitter and aplurality of receivers.
 9. The video audio signal switching anddistribution system of claim 1, wherein there is a plurality oftransmitters and a plurality of receivers.
 10. The video audio signalswitching and distribution system of claim 1, wherein each of the atleast one transmitters contains a circuit board configured for receivinga plurality of input signal formats, the circuit board furthercomprising; a VGA/audio to HDMI scaler configured to receive a VGA andaudio input signal; a DisplayPort to HDMI converter configured toreceive a DisplayPort input signal; a HDMI switcher configured forselecting among input signals for distribution to a digital transmitter;a microcontroller and optional selection button configured for selectingand controlling a signal from an activated transmitter; a digitaltransmitter configured for sending signals to the next connectedtransmitter, receiver or node; and a daisy chain processor for insertionof the signal into the signal path, wherein the signal path may flowfrom a single transmitter to a single receiver, or wherein the signalpath may flow from each of a daisy chain connected series oftransmitters to a single receiver or to each of a daisy chain connectedseries of receivers.
 11. The video audio signal switching anddistribution system of claim 1, wherein the at least one transmitterfurther comprises, an circuit board configured to receive a signal in aformat selected from the group consisting of VGA/audio, HDMI,DisplayPort, and DiiVA.
 12. The video audio signal switching anddistribution system of claim 1, wherein each of the at least onereceiver further comprises: a circuit board configured for receiving aninput signal from a transmitter or another receiver or a node; a digitaltransmitter for distributing a signal through the next connectedreceiver or a node; a processor for extracting the signal for relay to adisplay; and a microcontroller for determining and controlling thesignal flow path, whereby receivers connected to a display deviceextracts the signal from the signal flow path for display on the displaydevice.
 13. The video audio signal switching and distribution system ofclaim 1, wherein the type of cable used to connect transmitter,receiver, and display components is selected from the group consistingof a coaxial cable, a twisted pair cable, and an optical fiber cable.14. The video audio signal switching and distribution system of claim 1,wherein the number of the at least one transmitters, extenders orreceivers of the system are scalable, wherein additional transmitters,extenders or receivers can be added to the daisy chain series to coverany longer transmission distance
 15. The video audio signal switchingand distribution system of claim 1, wherein each of the transmitters,receivers and nodes are connected via a RJ45 male and female connectorpin/pair type A configuration for eight-conductor quad twisted-paircabling, the pin/pair A configuration further comprising: a set of eightpins configured to receive individual wires from four twisted pairs,wherein none of the two individual wires from each of the four twistedpairs are separated by an intervening individual wire from anothertwisted pair; and wherein the pin assignments is as follows from all thepin and pair numbering combinations; pin 1 and 2 are for the first andsecond wire of twisted pair 3; pin 3 and 4 are for the first and secondwire of twisted pair 2; pin 5 and 6 are for the first and second wire oftwisted pair 1; and pin 7 and 8 are for the first and second wire oftwisted pair 4, whereby the common-mode noise rejection and impedancecharacteristics are enhanced and crosstalk between wires is reduced,especially in high frequency.
 16. The RJ45 male and female connector pinconfiguration of claim 15 wherein the pin outs are alternatelyconfigured in a type B configuration wherein pin 1 and 2 are for thefirst and second wires of twisted pair 2 and wherein pin 3 and 4 are forthe first and second wires of twisted pair
 3. 17. The video audio signalswitching and distribution transmitter of claim 10 further comprising; aDiiVA converter for receiving a DiiVA signal input.
 18. The video audiosignal switching and distribution transmitter of claim 10, wherein theHDMI switcher is selected from the group consisting of a 2 signal by 1signal switcher, a 3 signal by 1 signal switcher, a 4 signal by 1 signalswitcher, and a multiple signal by 1 signal switcher.
 19. Thetransmitter of claim 1 or 10, wherein the circuit board can take powerfrom other transmitters and the receivers or node in the video audiosignal switching and distribution system; and whereby no separateexternal power supply is required.
 20. A transmitter or receiver ofclaim 1 or 12, wherein the circuit board can take power from othertransmitters and receivers or node in the video audio signal switchingand distribution system; and whereby no separate external power supplyis required.
 21. The video audio signals switching and distributionsystem of claim 1, wherein the video, audio, Ethernet and controlsignals can be bi-directional.
 22. The digital video audio signalswitching and distribution system of claim 1, further comprising: atleast one component duplexer component for signal switching anddistribution, wherein each duplexer has at least one interface with aplurality of inputs for receiving a signal from a cable from a sourcedevice and optionally a duplexer or a node and a plurality of signaloutputs for sending the input signal out for bi-directional transmissionto a device or to a duplexer or a node; optionally at least one signalselection control configured on a duplexer; and optionally, at least onedisplay unit having an interface with at least one input for receiving asignal from a cable from a receiver.
 23. The video audio signalswitching and distribution system of claim 22, wherein the duplexercontains a circuit board further comprising: a signal converter/switcherconfigured to receive a plurality of signal input formats; a signalconverter/distributer configured for outputting the plurality of signalsreceived from the signal converter/switcher; a digitaltransmitter/receiver configured to receive at least one signal from anupstream duplexer and send at least one signal to a downstream duplexer;a daisy chain processor configured to insert signal information into thesignal flow path; and a microcontroller configured for determining andcontrolling the signal flow path, whereby the duplexer daisy chainprocessor connected extracts signal information from the signal flowpath for display on a display device connected to the duplexer.
 24. Theduplexer of claim 22 wherein the circuit board contains connections toreceive and output signals selected from the group consisting of VGA,audio, DisplayPort, and DiiVA.
 25. A digital video audio signalswitching and distribution node comprising: at least one interface withat least one input for receiving at least one signal from a cable fromat least one transmitter, wherein each of the at least one transmittersare connected in a daisy chain series if there is more than onetransmitter; or another node; at least one matrix configured to receiveeach of the signals from each of the inputs and to output each signal toany of the outputs; at least one interface with at least one output fortransmitting at least one signal received from the at least one matrixto at least one receiver, wherein each of the at least one receivers areconnected in a daisy chain series if there is more than one receiver, oranother node, wherein each of the signals can be routed from any of theinputs to any of the outputs; and at least one microcontroller fordirecting each of the at least one signals.
 26. The node of claim 25,further comprising: at least one de-multiplexer configured to receivesignals from each of the inputs for separating a combined signal tomultiple independent signals and feeds to the at least one matrix; andat least one multiplexer configured to receive multiple independentsignals from the at least one matrix and combine them into one combinedsignal for outputting via a cable to a device selected from the groupconsisting of a receiver, a daisy chain of receivers and another node.27. The node of claim 25, further comprising: a networking switchconfigured connected to the at least one matrix for providing aconnection to the internet.
 28. The node of claim 27 wherein thenetworking switch is an Ethernet switch.
 29. The node of claim 27,further comprising: at least one memory interface operationallyconnected to the microcontroller for providing instructions fordirecting each of the at least one signals.
 30. A method for digitalvideo audio signal switching and distribution comprising: providing atleast one input signal consisting of either VGA/audio, DisplayPort,HDMI, or optionally DiiVA into at least one transmitter or adaisy-chained series of transmitters via a cable from a video audiodevice, wherein the signal path flows from the video audio devices intoand through the transmitter or chain of transmitters if there is morethan one transmitter; converting each input signal into a common signalformat using signal converter or scaler circuits on the circuit board ofthe transmitter; selecting between the converted signals with aswitcher, configured on the circuit board of the transmitter; insertinginput signals into the signal path, wherein a daisy chain processorconfigured on the circuit board of the transmitter inserts signals intothe signal path to flow through the transmitter or chain of transmittersif there is more than one transmitter; transmitting the inserted signalby linking at least one of the transmitters to a receiver or a daisychained connected series of receivers, wherein the signal path flowsfrom an individual transmitter to an individual receiver and thenthrough the chain of receivers if there is more than one receiver;extracting signals for display on a display device wherein a daisy chainprocessor configured on an circuit board of the receiver extractsselected signals, wherein the extracted signals are converted to atleast one signal format which can be shown on a display unit by anoptional scaler or converter circuits on the circuit board of thereceiver; optionally controlling signal switching and distributionbetween the chain of transmitters and the chain of receivers, whereineach of the at least one transmitters contains at least one selectionbutton, whereby activating a selection button on a transmitter controlsthe selection and distribution of the signal through the transmitter andreceiver or chains of transmitters and receivers for relay to a displayunit, wherein the last activated selection button controls the signalselection for display; displaying the signals from the receivers on atleast one display unit; and optionally controlling signal selection andthe routing of signals flowing in the signal path at a second level,wherein a remote control unit is inserted at one of a plurality ofpositions among the connected transmitters and receivers.
 31. The methodof claim 30, further comprising the steps of: providing the signal witha twisted pair cable terminated with a male RJ45 connector having atwisted wire pair configuration of claim 15; and connecting the maleRJ45 connector with a cognate female connector with the pinconfiguration of claim 15.